Borussii Lider ready to return as Dortmund eye stronger squad

Defender Nico Schlotterbeck is declared fit for the upcoming home clash with SC Paderborn 07, coach Niko Kovac announced on the press conference. The co‑captain and fellow defender Ramy Bensebaini are also listed as healthy and ready for the weekend. This news follows a swift recovery from a torn ligament in his left ankle.

Injury and recovery

Schlotterbeck suffered the injury in the second group match of the World Cup against the Ivory Coast, described in the report as Wybrzeżem Kości Słoniowej. He was substituted at half‑time and missed the remainder of the tournament. Subsequent scans confirmed a ruptured ligament, initially suggesting a several‑week lay‑off.

Early forecasts expected a return around mid‑October after the international break. However, the medical update now points to an earlier comeback, potentially in time for the Paderborn fixture. So the squad gains a key defensive option sooner than anticipated.

Impact on Dortmund's defence

At the press briefing Kovac Skomentujed, "They are fit, healthy and completely ready for the weekend. Theoretically I could field both of them." He added that the news makes him very happy. Zu the coach's relief, the defender's morale is also improving, as noted by sporting director Ole Book.

Niezły początek sezonu has already seen Borussia Dortmund win both league encounters and secure a 3‑2 Champions League victory over Villarreal. With Schlotterbeck and Bensebaini back, the manager gains more flexibility, especially as Filippo Mane and captain Emre Can remain unavailable.

Ob the defensive line, Bensebaini is likely to start alongside Waldemar Anton and Joane Gadou, while Schlotterbeck will be eased back to full match fitness. The added depth could prove decisive in the club's push for higher league positions.

Niez and other promising signs suggest Dortmund will be a tougher opponent in the weeks ahead, reinforcing their ambition for a stronger season.